Combination of azathioprine and UVA irradiation is a major source of cellular 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2’-deoxyguanosine.

Thiopurine antimetabolites, such as azathioprine (Aza) and 6-thioguanine (6-TG), are widely used in the treatment of cancer, inflammatory conditions and organ transplantation patients. Recent work has shown that cells treated with 6-TG and UVA generate ROS, with implied oxidatively generated modification of DNA. In a study of urinary 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG) in renal transplant patients, we provided the first in vivo evidence linking Aza and oxidatively damaged DNA. Using the hOGG1 comet assay we herein demonstrate high levels of 8-oxodG and alkali-labile sites (ALS) in cells treated with biologically relevant doses of 6-TG, or Aza, plus UVA. This damage was induced dose-dependently. Surprisingly, given the involvement of 6-TG incorporation into DNA in its therapeutic effect, significant amounts of 8-oxodG and ALS were induced in quiescent cells, although less than in proliferating cells. We speculate that some activity of hOGG1 towards unirradiated, 6-TG treated cells, implies possible recognition of 6-TG or derivatives thereof. This is the first report to conclusively demonstrate oxidatively damaged DNA in cells treated with thiopurines and UVA. These data indicate that Aza-derived oxidative stress will occur in the skin of patients on Aza, following even low level UVA exposure. This is a probable contributor to the increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer in these patients. However, as oxidative stress is unlikely to be involved in the therapeutic effects of Aza, intercepting ROS production in the skin could be a viable route by which this side effect may be minimised.